Brown Motors - Which Truck Tows With Less Stress around Petoskey, MI — the 2026 Ford Super Duty F-250 or the 2026 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD?
When owners ask which heavy-duty pickup makes towing feel easier in changing weather and traffic, we look beyond the spec sheet. The big question is this: which truck reduces the steps and uncertainty between hitch-up and highway? In that comparison, the Ford approach stands out because the assistance you need most is baked into the process. Features such as Pro Trailer Backup Assist™, Pro Trailer Hitch Assist™, and Onboard Scales with Smart Hitch do more than add capability — they remove stress by guiding you with clear prompts and in-vehicle readouts so you know when you’re dialed in. The Silverado 2500 HD offers a robust camera suite and useful trailering profiles, but the Ford toolset feels like a true co-pilot from the first turn of the wheel to the last turn into the campsite or jobsite.
Consider the moment you line up: Ford’s Pro Trailer Hitch Assist™ can help automatically position the hitch ball under the coupler, saving time and reducing do-overs on uneven ground. Once you’re connected, Onboard Scales with Smart Hitch give you an estimate of payload and trailer tongue weight, displayed in the cluster or center screen so you can balance load and distribution with confidence. Then, when backing a long rig into a tight space, Pro Trailer Backup Assist™ uses a simple dial and on-screen guidance to translate your inputs into smooth, predictable trailer movement. The Silverado’s camera options add visibility, yet Ford’s guidance streamlines the whole sequence — from setup to final placement — especially helpful for drivers who tow often, or who alternate among multiple trailers.
On the move, visibility and stability matter just as much as raw power. The 2026 F-250 brings available PowerScope® trailer tow mirrors for excellent sightlines and a 360-Degree Camera that can help you scan surroundings at low speed. Add the available Head-Up Display for key information in your field of view, and the truck feels calm and collected — particularly during lane changes or when negotiating hills with crosswinds. Silverado 2500 HD drivers benefit from trailering-optimized Adaptive Cruise Control and multi-view camera tech; both trucks aim to elevate awareness. Where Ford pulls ahead is how those systems coordinate with the hitching and loading stages, creating an end-to-end experience that’s easier to learn and repeat.
Owners who frequently work off-grid ask about power access as well. Here, available 2kW Pro Power Onboard™ in the Ford lets you plug in tools, lights, or a compressor directly from the bed. That can simplify roadside fixes or keep a small job humming without bringing a separate generator. It’s a detail that proves its worth on the third or fourth task of the day, when every saved minute counts.
Finally, ride confidence under load depends on more than torque. The TorqShift® 10-speed automatic manages downshifts with composure, helping maintain momentum on grades while reducing hunting. Pair this with Ford’s thoughtfully calibrated steering and braking feel, and long-distance trailering becomes less tiring for both driver and passengers. Silverado’s Allison 10-speed is strong in its own right, but many drivers describe Ford’s setup as the smoother partner when weight varies from day to day.
If you are comparing these two trucks for towing peace of mind, your decision comes down to which one helps more at every step — not just when the throttle is down. That’s why Brown Motors highlights Ford’s integrated approach for owners serving Charlevoix, Cheboygan, and Petoskey. The smoother the process, the more you can focus on the road, the weather, and the work at hand — and the better each tow feels from start to finish.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Do I need special training to use Ford’s Pro Trailer Backup Assist™?
No. The system is designed to be intuitive. After a brief setup to enter trailer dimensions, you use a simple dash-mounted dial to steer the trailer while the truck manages steering inputs. On-screen prompts and clear graphics guide each step.
How does Onboard Scales with Smart Hitch help with safety?
By estimating payload and tongue weight, it helps you avoid overloading and improve balance. Proper distribution contributes to better braking, steering response, and trailer stability, especially in crosswinds or on rough surfaces.
Can I power tools directly from the F-250 bed?
Yes. With available 2kW Pro Power Onboard™, you can plug compatible tools or accessories into in-bed outlets. It’s a practical way to keep jobs moving without relying on a separate generator or searching for external power.